PHOENIX — Arizona’s electric vehicle owners are about to lose a valuable commuting benefit, as state transportation officials confirmed Thursday that solo EV drivers will be barred from HOV lanes when federal exemptions expire this fall.
The current federal regulation permitting single-occupant EVs and alternative fuel vehicles to use carpool lanes during restricted hours will sunset on September 30 unless Congress takes action. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has already begun preparing drivers for the potential change, launching an informational webpage about the impending policy shift.
What’s Changing:
• Current exemption allows solo EV drivers in HOV lanes during rush hours
• Restrictions apply Monday-Friday (6-9 AM and 3-7 PM)
• Hybrid vehicles lost eligibility in 2020 (with limited grandfather clause)
• All remaining alternative fuel vehicles face same September 30 deadline
ADOT officials emphasized that while Congress could still extend the exemption during the six-month window, drivers should prepare for the likely scenario of losing HOV lane privileges. The change would affect thousands of Arizona EV owners who currently enjoy faster commutes in the Valley’s diamond-marked lanes.
The policy shift comes as Arizona continues to expand its EV infrastructure while grappling with increasing traffic congestion. Transportation analysts suggest the change could impact EV adoption rates in the state, where the carpool lane privilege has been a significant incentive for environmentally-conscious drivers.
No immediate changes to Arizona’s energy efficient license plate program have been announced in relation to the federal HOV lane policy expiration. ADOT recommends drivers check their website for updates as the September deadline approaches.
